My yoga journey began as a meditative practice only. I registered for a Yoga Teacher Training during the Covid-19 pandemic. I was suffering from a malady that left me with almost completely immobile shoulders, so my intention was to sit, breathe, expand, and to garner some novel instruction to help me transcend my stuck anatomy.

First day of the program I was taken by surprise that I would actually have to DO SOMETHING, like move my body. (I know what you’re thinking… Grace! Please!) I raced back and forth between my new scuff free yoga mat to my computer screen sized shala, squinting to view the correct posture so I could attempt something even closely related to that shape, and without actually hurting myself!

There were many tears accompanied by loud mournful groans; thank goodness for the mute button on zoom. After a couple of weeks, the immobilizing limitations of my mind and body were steadily lifting and stealthily resolving. My mind was becoming free, and my heart was wide open. I felt fully engaged and living life anew, even with the discipline that it required to practice. Healing began. My mind and body felt lighter, and my breath became more intentional with each passing day. I had fallen in love with the practice of yoga, with my eighty-six new colleagues from around the globe, with my instructor and his family who were facilitating the course, and most importantly, I fell in love with my Self.

I learned to love my soul, breath, spirit, mind and body-especially the parts that seemed the most tainted and unlovable. By opening my heart literally, physically, and figuratively, and allowing the lessons of yoga to wash over, into and through me, I began to connect to all the parts of me, soulfully, and a more conscious evolution of my Self began. I learned that love is the answer, and that first feeling it within oneself allows us to share love and compassion with others. And isn’t that what the world needs NOW?!

Love, Light, Laughter, and Life Long Learning ~ Lise

”This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.” - Dalai Lama